Review Detail

In "Fatman," Mel Gibson shines as a gritty, low-income Santa Claus who operates out of a rural county, far from the traditional North Pole setting. The plot takes a dark turn when a disgruntled and spoiled young boy, furious over receiving a lump of coal for Christmas, hires a hitman to eliminate Santa. This hitman, portrayed with chilling intensity by Walton Goggins, has his own vendetta against Santa, adding layers of tension to the story. 

Gibson’s portrayal of a weary, world-weary Santa brings a raw and unfiltered edge to the character, making him relatable yet formidable. Despite the film’s technical proficiency in terms of setting, atmosphere, and cinematography, the storyline stretches the bounds of credibility, especially in its depiction of the over-the-top assassination plot. 

While Gibson’s performance is commendable, the chemistry between him and Marianne Jean-Baptiste, who plays his supportive yet exasperated partner, falls flat, lacking the spark needed to elevate their on-screen relationship. However, the dark humor provided by the elves and the Machiavellian antics of the spoiled child add a unique flavor to the film. 

"Fatman" is a holiday movie that’s not for the faint of heart or young children, given its violent themes and gory scenes. It’s an unconventional take on the Santa Claus mythos that might intrigue some viewers with its bold premise but ultimately leaves much to be desired in coherence and emotional depth.